Neil Hallett(1924-2004)

Neil, whose real name was John N. Neill, was born in Brussels, where his father was the continental traffic manager for the London North Eastern Railway. His original ambition was to be a sheep farmer in South Africa, and for a time he was a farmer in England. On deciding to be an actor he changed his name, adding his grandmother's maiden name of Hallett to his own surname. He made his stage debut in 1947 in repertory at Tunbridge Wells, with further repertory work at Redditch, Croydon, York, and Stockport. While he made a few films, he was much better known for his television work - particularly in the series of 'Ghost Squad', 'The Informers' and 'The Newcomers' - but he preferred being on the stage, where his favourite part was Stanhope in 'Journey's End'.